Hailey Heseltine - reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com
It is no secret that reading is important, and having access to books helps individuals improve their literacy; it aids in expanding vocabularies and enables comprehension of complex ideas through text. Reading allows people to explore worlds very different from their own, fostering empathy for others' experiences and expanding their capacity for creativity. Additionally, reflecting on texts read sharpens critical thinking skills and allows readers to reap the benefits of what they have learned. In short, reading is a tremendous aid in expanding minds and, therefore, the whole self.
When considering a place where anyone can access books, the first location that often comes to mind is a library—a building where individuals search for their desired book among the long rows of shelves, check it out, and return it once they have finished reading. However, the concept of a library is broader than that. At its core, a library is simply a place where literature is available to be shared among a community. This concept is exemplified in an unexpected place—small boxes of books shared all over the world, thanks to a nonprofit organization known as Little Free Library, based in St. Paul, Minn.
Little Free Library began as a simple idea: that books should be easily accessible to everyone. This idea has resonated with many, as more than 300 million books have been shared through the over 150,000 Little Free Libraries worldwide within the program. Over the years, Little Free Library has earned several awards and significant recognition for the efforts of its volunteer workers.
Little Free Libraries are small boxes, often with a plexiglass door, raised off the ground. They come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Since caretakers are encouraged to be creative with their registered libraries, they can range from simple boxes to unique shapes or designs. Inside, little shelves support many books waiting to be taken home by new readers.
Using a Little Free Library is simple: one can choose a book they would like to read, take it, and close the door carefully to ensure the other books are kept safe from the elements. Individuals are encouraged to exchange that book for one of their own, perhaps a book still lying on the shelf at home that was not to their taste, but this is not required. The idea behind it is to have reading material available at all times while encouraging users to provide reading material for others in the community so that the Little Free Library remains stocked. If someone f inds a book they want but has nothing to offer in return, they are welcome to take it home. They should, however, remember the Little Free Library they took it from the next time they have a book to give away. After all, what better use for it is there than sharing it with the community?
Here are some Little Free Library options in the area: Suwannee County: - 301 Meadow St., Live Oak, Fla. - 207 Plant Ave. SW, Branford, Fla. Hamilton County: - 16644 Spring St., White Springs, Fla. Anyone is welcome to visit these locations whenever they would like to take or leave a book.
It is important for individuals to care for their local Little Free Libraries by handling them gently and respectfully so that others can enjoy them in the community for years to come.
For those interested in learning more about Little Free Libraries or starting their own for the community to enjoy, visit www.littlefreelibrary.org.